On the Prowl
Mountain lions in Los Angeles, California, are shifting their sleep habits. They’re becoming more nocturnal. The change helps them survive. It keeps them out of the way of people. The creatures are more active while people are asleep.
A mountain lion prowls in the mountains near Los Angeles, California.
JASON KLASSI—GETTY IMAGES
A study of the animals was explained in Biological Conservation. The journal published the findings in November 2024.
Shift to Survive
Los Angeles weather is mostly sunny and mild. Hiking is popular. Other outdoor activities are too. Some people go to natural areas to do these. This affects wildlife there.
A sign warns drivers that mountain lions are likely to pass by.
MARINA RABCEVIC—GETTY IMAGES
Mountain lions have adapted. That’s according to Ellie Bolas. She led the study. The animals sleep during peak hours of human activity. This “allows us to share these natural areas together,” Bolas says.
Seth Riley works for the United States National Park Service. Los Angeles mountain lions are “in one of the largest urban areas in the world,” he says. “That would not be possible if mountain lions weren’t able to adjust to human activity.”
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